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Music Lesson Reviews from Students

Students are raving about their Music instructors on TakeLessons.
Check out some of these recent reviews.

Review by Rich

"Gio is great. He knows his stuff and makes the lessons fun while teaching."

New York, NY teacher:
Gio A.

Review by Babak

"violin lessons

I truly enjoyed my violin sessions with Ashlie, she is the best, I can't wait to start again."

Los Angeles, CA teacher:
Ashlie N.

Review by ruth

"Lisa is a fabulous and generous teacher. I was very scared about embarking on this venture to try and learn to sing. She has been encouraging and gentle a

nd very, very helpful. She instills hope as well as provides me with the encouragement to keep getting better and better. I highly recommend Lisa as an excellent teacher."

...

Washington, DC teacher:
Lisa B.

Review by Marc

"Was very impressed with Peter's methods, demeanor, patience with my 9 year-old daughter, who is a beginner at piano. She had some experience at reading m

usic, and Peter was adept at recognizing this and 'pushing the envelope' a bit with her and she responded enthusiastically. She left every lesson with a smile on her face."

...

Bridgeport, CT teacher:
Peter B.

Review by Jonah

"Diego is a great teacher! I have been taking lessons from him for a while now and I have improved considerably. He is very clear with his teaching using

the information learned through his information psychology. He explains why we must do something a certain way and this leads to a better understanding of flamenco and the guitar. He teaches not just guitar, but also how to practice. Diego is incredibly friendly and makes learning something so difficult manageable and fun!"

...

Chicago, IL teacher:
Diego A.

Review by Dustin

"Paul is great. Super easy to talk to and teaches in a very laid back and casual way. He removes the pressure of performance and focuses on what you need t

o do to improve your skills. He makes it fun."

...

Chicago, IL teacher:
Paul W.

Review by John

"Rick has been great in writing out (and instructing me how to play) music that I have enjoyed... Really knowledgeable and patient... It was a really good

experience.. I would continue, but my schedule has become too cluttered.."

...

Minneapolis, MN teacher:
Rick W.

Review by Ryan

"Best Time!"

Boston, MA teacher:
Ryan G.

Review by Andrea

"My daughter takes lessons from Jackie and she has been so helpful. As a vocal instructor, she knows her stuff of course, but I also appreciate her care fo

r my daughter as a young performer, helping her overcome fears and work through insecurities that tween/teen girls can have. My daughter has grown in her singing and acting as well as her confidence. Jackie has been flexible when our schedule was tricky, and always instructive but positive. Definitely recommend!"

Popular Music Teachers Near Pinole

John D.

About John

*** Lesson Details ***My students will develop a passion for music and a desire to play!

I like to get right to the experience of actually playing music. I start with learning songs, drum beats, and chord progressions and get to technique and music reading AFTER we have had some fun.

My key to successful teaching is to create a custom curriculum for each student. Some students are interested in the details of how to do it "right", and others just want to rock. I try to adapt to different learning styles and musical goals to give each student an ideal experience.

I want student

s to learn how to play, not just how to read or do drills. We will listen to music together, and talk about the function of each instrument. For drummers, I play bass lines on the piano and we lock into a groove. For piano students, I play along with drums or percussion. It's important for students to learn how to play with others, and to listen and get inspired by what's around them.

Students will have the option to perform in a student recital where you are backed by a band of professional musicians!

***John D.'s Biography***

I was born in Amsterdam, Holland, where my father worked as an opera singer. While listening to vocal warm-up arpeggios, my mother bounced me on her knee and taught me rhythms and rhymes.

In my family we beatbox, play piano, and sing together. The family moved to the States in 1995 where my parents worked as music teachers. My Dad is a voice professor at the University of Wisconsin, and my Mom runs an amazing music program at Country View Elementary School in Verona, WI.

I played in the band program throughout high-school and had an amazing and demanding music teacher and highly talented friends. The drumset became my passion and I played, blissfully and recklessly, as often possible. Our teacher took the high school band on a concert tour of Europe in 2002 in Austria, the Czech Republic, and Italy.

The band program led me to classical and contemporary music at the University of Wisconsin, where I honed my craft and discovered the profound breadth of music around the world. I paid my way through college as a member of the WI Army National Guard Band, a great wind ensemble with jazz and rock band components, and slowly built a career as a musician. I took every gig that came my way and created my own if nobody was calling. Pretty soon I became "the guy in, like, 8 different bands", including Funk, Rock, Jazz, Afro-Cuban, Brazilian, and West African bands. I've been working as a musician ever since, performing several nights per week, and teaching during the day.

I began teaching drum lessons to my friends when I was about 18 and realized I was really good at it. I began taking on private students and teaching group lessons and classes. Students of mine have achieved the highest ranks at the State Solo and Ensemble Festival in Wisconsin, and auditioned into the Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestra. I am on the annual faculty Wildcat Percussion Camp, was adjunct faculty at New York University, and directed the world percussion ensemble at the University of Wisconsin. I've worked as a teacher with the Madison Area School District, Wisconsin Youth Company, YMCA, Global Arts to Go, University Settlement, and in many different public schools in the New York metro area. I taught a high school class called "The Spirit of Jazz", and

I've learned how to be a real teacher, to put myself in your shoes to help you achieve your potential as a drummer, and as a musician. My teaching style is to de-mystify the art of percussion: getting great sounds out of the drums, being prepared for any style, practicing productively, and focusing your mind.

I have a Bachelor's degree in classical percussion from the University of Wisconsin, a Masters degree in Jazz Performance from NYU, and have traveled to Africa, Europe, and Latin America to perform, record, and study. I have performed with Badal Roy (Miles Davis), Chris Potter, Kenny Werner, Brad Shepik, Lenny Pickett, Chuchito Valdez, and many other great musicians. I was Adjunct Faculty at NYU's jazz program, and at the University of Wisconsin dance program. I've given masterclasses at Juilliard, University of Michigan, Lawrence Conservatory, and many other colleges. I played for 5 months in the Off-Broadway show "Fun Home", and toured and gigged with a wide variety of bands.

I've recorded on nearly 20 albums and have been involved in many other projects. Ask me anything you want in our music lessons!

...

Reviews

Mike T. September 22, 2014
Percussion ·
In studio

I have been a colleague of John's for 16 years and he has always impressed me with his constant dedication to the craft of music. Though he is incredibly talented, he has always been one that works hard and asks questions without fear. In my experience, this is the kind of person that makes the best teachers. He has always loved music, drums, all percussion and more recently has been learning so much about music technology and how to express yourself with any media available. It would be a shame to pass up an opportunity to study with him!

Daniel P. August 24, 2014
Drum ·
In studio

I was pretty new to drumming when I first started taking lessons from John, and I could barely play a simple back beat. Long story short - within 6 months I was playing my first show!

I was looking for a teacher with both rock/jazz and classical background, so John fit the bill perfectly. He also knows a lot about Latin American percussion and other styles from around the world, and has a great understanding of how these different styles relate to each other and the various techniques which can be applied.

During the first few lessons, we discussed my background and aims, and came up with a solid plan for how I should proceed. John's broad experience was really helpful for this process. I had been playing guitar and piano for many years before I started on drums, so I already had a decent grounding in musicality and theory. We therefore focused mainly on technique during lessons. John has a real gift for explaining things in an easily understandable way, as well as going into detail when required. Whenever I had trouble with a particular technique, John's advice would help me overcome it. He is also very helpful in suggesting suitable exercises and repertoire. John also provides a private blog containing lesson notes and useful links, and he was also happy for me to record lessons, which I found very useful. With John's help, I was able to progress pretty quickly, and after 6 months I started playing in a band with some friends, which has been awesome fun.

John is super friendly and engaging, and this makes lessons with him great fun. As well as being a fantastic drummer, it is clear that he really cares about the quality of his lessons, and about his students. I'm sure he would make a great teacher for students of all ability/background. John, you rock! Thanks!

Annie H. October 13, 2013
Drum Verified Student

Great Musician & Great Teacher

My son started taking lessons with John when he was 7. During the past few months my son has become more aware of the music around him. He looks forward to drums every week. John has great patients and is amazing at connected with children. He is able to keep my son focused, which can be a hard task of itself. He offers instruction while still valuing the individual's personality and taste. John not only shares his knowledge and personal experiences, but his passion.

I would recommend John to anyone in a heartbeat.

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John D.

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John D.

Berkeley, CA 94708

(4)

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

Paige P.

About Paige

Paige, soprano, is a graduate of the University of Tennessee, where she was a member of the Knoxville Opera Studio. Most recently, she appeared as a soloist for Marble City Opera's "Night of Horror and Mayhem." Other appearances include ‘Rose’ in Street Scene, ‘Donna Elvira’ in Don Giovanni, ‘Ann Putnam’ in The Crucible, ‘Alma Way’ in The Village Singer, scenes at the Harrower Opera Workshop including ‘Manon’ (Manon), ‘Elektra’ (Idomeneo), and ‘First Lady’ (Die Zauberflöte), as well as numerous events in the Knoxville area, such as the Clarence Brown Theater’s ‘Amadeus’ (Katherina Cavalieri).

Paige currently teaches voice and music appreciation at Pellissippi State Community College. She holds a Master’s degree in Vocal Performance as well as a Bachelor’s of Music in Music Education from Texas State University. Paige is a student of Jeremy Silver.

*** Lesson Details ***I offer a relaxed atmosphere for serious learning and musical growth! I provide music from my own library, tailored to your experience level and vocal goals. Lessons are geared to improve vocal tone, music reading skills, and musical confidence.

*** Studio Equipment ***The home studio offers wood floors and large windows for lots of light. The room is spacious with an upright piano. Seating for parents is available in the adjoining living room.*Parking Note: I have a shared driveway, so please park under the plum tree in front of the house.

On Wednesdays, I teach at an alternate location, so please take note of that when scheduling!

*** Specialties ***I specialize in Operatic Voice, sight singing using solfege, and rhythm skills using the down-up system. I have been studying private voice at the university level since August of 2003 and participated in choirs from August 1999-present, learning sight singing and rhythm skills as well as choral vocal technique. I currently teach voice at the college level, with art song and folk song based repertoire.

...

Reviews

Carlos G. May 6, 2013
Singing Verified Student

Paige has an amazing way to teach her students the fundementals of singing!

I love the way she teaches. She helps me to understand and comprehen what she is teaching. I highly recomend her as a singing teacher. :)

Brooks W. September 9, 2012
Singing Verified Student

Paige is a great teacher and a friendly person.

Paige Patrick, a Great Teacher

Paige is another wonderful teacher. Chloe has been with 4 teachers with Take-Lessons in the last 3 and 1/2 years.. They change because they are all Opera students at UT, and as soon as they can, off they go to New York City! However, that has been a very good thing!!! Chloe has learned something wonderful from each of them that the last one didn't teach. She could take anyone available but so far she goes with the teacher her last teacher recommends. She tried out two from the list when Anna left for New Your City to join one of Chloe 's previous teachers, Dixie.
Chloe picked Paige and loves the comfort level she has with .her. Paige is very personable, easy to get along with, and a geat teacher. Chloe has just told me that the new technique Paige is teachng her has improved her voice in her school chior. Chloe is delighted with this, because she was at the point where practice was the main improver of her voice and now because of Paige she has a new technique.
Chloe and I, (her mother), would highly recommend Paige Patrick.

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Paige P.

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Paige P.

Richmond, CA 94804

(2)

starting at

$35
/ 30-min

Larisa K.

About Larisa

Began violin lessons at age 8.At age 15 was accepted into the elite program at the School of Music in Odessa, Ukraine.Continued on to one of the premier music Universities in the world: Kiev State Conservatory, where I received a Masters degree in Teaching and Performing arts.Throughout my higher education I have held Violin Instructor positions first at the Kiev Music School and then at the Conservatory.

My Professional Career in Ukraine and USA includes performance with numerous symphony and chamber groups, such as Kiev Chamber Orchestra, San Francisco Symphony, San Francisco Opera,

San Jose Symphony. I am passionate and dedicated to my Art which is reflected in my teaching style and in the results my students consistently achieve. My ultimate goal as an instructor is to convey to my students the beauty of making music. I define success to be the ability to see the joy that playing for yourself and others brings to you and your audience.

*** Lesson Details ***My Method and Goals:

Proper technique is the key to producing extraordinary sound and growing as a violist. I ensure that my students gain solid understanding of these fundamentals first and foremost.A significant part of the first few lessons will be devoted to developing proper posture and hold of the instrument. A good violinist must be relaxed to prevent muscle tension and produce those rich, spellbinding notes. Soon the instrument begins to feel like an extension of the hands, and students begin to progress much quicker, seeing (and hearing) surprising results.I can follow the Suzuki method if requested, but much prefer principles of the Russian School. I will be happy to discuss the benefits of each with you.

Reviews

Linda K. December 18, 2013
Violin

Incredible Training - A Perfect Match

We interviewed many teachers, and then I found Larisa. Providing incredible training in classical techniques combined with a spirit of playfulness and fun, sheâs been the perfect teacher for my daughter

Sara D. December 18, 2013
Violin

A Great Violin Teacher

My daughter has been taking lessons with Larisa for three years and has made incredible progress. She began as a viola player and Larisa gave her lessons on that instrument as well. She was very helpful in making the transition to violin. Larisa works on technique as well as musicality so that the student develops into a well rounded musician. Larisa is the type of teacher who communicates clearly so that the student is able to immediately grasp the new concepts. She is a wonderful violinist and is able to demonstrate by playing beautifully as well as explaining. Larisa is extremely knowledgeable about the different periods of music and composers and shares this in her teaching. She has an easygoing personality and my daughter immediately connected with her. I would highly recommend Larisa for your student.

Vita V. December 7, 2013
Violin Verified Student

Perfect balance of professionalism and passion

Larisa was not our first teacher but she is no doubt the best one. She is highly professional, she accentuates the right positioning of the hands, but the music and emotional expression is on the first place. She combines the best of the Russian music teaching tradition with very attentive and fun environment for kids. She is very sensitive to child's needs and structure her lesson very individually . Not to mention her excellent communication and reliability. She also has a very positive attitude and my daughter is always looking forward to her violin lessons. Thank you, Larisa!

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Larisa K.

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Larisa K.

Hercules, CA 94547

(3)

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

David W.

About David

Hi there, and thanks for viewing my TakeLessons profile! I am excited to be a part of the team in Berkeley, CA.

I started teaching lessons while in music school for Classical Guitar in 1996. From 1998 onwards, I played with a variety of musicians from Africa and Latin America, as well the as great American traditions of gospel, funk, jazz, and bluegrass. All the while, I continued to study music theory and composition, on my own and in private lessons with both well-known players and local professionals. Flamenco and Indian Classical music have also been great interests which I am still in

volved with.

Though guitar is generally my "go-to" instrument, I often use a MIDI keyboard for composition, and studied/performed on bass for 10 years. The last few years, I have begun to develop my voice as well.

Since 2006, I have been teaching music theory and composition at Ex’pression College in Emeryville. This is a digital production environment for the arts, and my students come from a variety of backgrounds. Some are musicians/aspiring musicians, and some are primarily interested in working with technology; but all are audio enthusiasts and love music!

*** Lesson Details ***Whether you are a complete beginner or have been playing gigs for years, are very young or old, I have something to offer you!

How we structure lessons depends in part on you and your goals, as well as your learning style. Having taught music for over 15 years, I have a large amount of resources at my disposal, and can either teach from a method book, or a variety of materials, some of which are my own creations.

I also like to use technology as a teaching aid, and can show you how to use your own computer, keyboard, or music production application (garageband, etc) to practice and create music at home. Another thing that I offer is to make recordings of key parts of the lesson, either as an audio or video file, or both. These can be shared with you through email, dropbox, or a flash drive if you bring one along to your lesson.

Please contact TakeLessons if you have any further questions! I look forward to meeting and working with you or your child.

*** Studio Equipment ***Home studio: Front room with computer station, guitars, music stand. Waiting area with couches and table, and parents can sit in on lessons. Street parking available, no pets.

College: practice rooms and classrooms available with computers and MIDI controllers.

*** Specialties ***On guitar and bass, I have experience in world music including Africa, Latin America, and Flamenco. I also love American traditional music, including funk, jazz, rock, and gospel. I specialize in teaching music theory and composition, no matter what instrument. Rhythmic concepts applied to any instrument are a favorite topic.

...

Reviews

Ian C. July 30, 2015
Flamenco Guitar ·
In studio Verified Student

David is an excellent teacher. I've been taking flamenco guitar lessons with him for about a year now and have experienced a significant improvement in terms of actual playing and rhythmic abilities and also understanding the music in general.

David is patient, he does an excellent job explaining things and goes above and beyond to make sure that you're really learning. Consistently impressed.

Jerry G. August 6, 2013
Music Theory

AMAZING!

I met Dave in my music theory class at Ex'pression college. He's the reason why I'm making music today. I went from not knowing a thing about music theory or a piano to creating chord progressions, understanding modes, intervals, modal interchange, and how to read sheet music. He's extremely patient, professional, and easy to get along with. His passion for music and teaching is infectious, I highly recommend!!!

Pedro L. April 28, 2013
Flamenco Guitar Verified Student

great instructor!

I have learned so much in the little time I've been taking lessons with David.

Not only is he extremely talented, but he's also very patient when it comes to teaching (which is necessary when I don't grasp the techniques right away).

I started off as a beginner, knowing nothing about how to play the guitar, and am now recognizing notes and memorizing and playing full songs.

He is very flexible with hours, and genuinely has a passion for Flamenco music!

Two thumbs up!!

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David W.

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David W.

Berkeley, CA 94703

(8)

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

Astrid A.

About Astrid

I have worked with children with autism and other learning difficulties. I love helping students fall in love with music, like I did growing up with my vocal coaches. I am passionate about music and my students learning and excelling in their craft. I enjoy working with all ages and all types of music abilities.

...

Reviews

Rachel S. May 23, 2015
Singing ·
In studio Verified Student

After looking for weeks for a vocal teacher, I came across Astrid here on TakeLessons and felt she might be a good person to try a few lessons with. I showed up the lesson to find out that she was the older sister of two of my good friends and to find out that she is the best vocal teacher I could have found! She's very patient, fun, talented, helpful, and silly, and she really makes learning to train my voice awesome! I take one 1/2 hour lesson usually once a week with her, and I've already completed two full songs with her in the few months I've been training with her!
Astrid is definitely someone I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a vocal coach, plus she has an awesome voice. Definitely going to continue lessons with her! :)

Matt W. January 25, 2015
Singing ·
In home Verified Student

Astrid is great with our 14 year old daughter. She listens to her, challenges her, and is helping her develop a lot.

Augustino M. June 15, 2014
Piano ·
In studio Verified Student

by teaching a young girl like Jasmine and being a young lady herself;;Astrid is very patient and seems very skilled on what she does

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